Question

The term gravida refers to a:

a) woman who has given birth.
b) pregnant woman.
c) woman who has breast-fed.
d) woman who has had an abortion.

Answer 1

The term 'gravida' refers to a pregnant woman, regardless of the ultimate outcome of the pregnancy. It encompasses situations ranging from a normal pregnancy to one involving a gestational carrier or a surrogate mother.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term gravida refers to a pregnant woman. This term is used to denote a woman who is carrying one or more offspring, from the point of fertilization until birth. The term specifically accounts for the state of pregnancy, irrespective of the outcome, which may include a full-term birth, an abortion, or a miscarriage. A gravida can also refer to a gestational carrier or a surrogate mother who is pregnant, but with differing implications about the genetic parentage of the child. Pregnancy requires the maternal organism to provide essential nutrients, ensure proper health to support development, and safeguard from harmful exposures, especially during the delicate stages of early fetal development where organ systems are forming.